The Best Chili Recipe

Learn how to make the best chili recipe with this easy-to-follow dish that brings warmth and flavor to your table year-round. Whether you’re hosting a game day party or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, this chili is sure to impress. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, it’s perfect for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This chili recipe comes together in about 75 minutes, making it a great option for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of spices and ingredients creates a robust flavor that will satisfy your taste buds.
• Versatile: Customize this chili by adding your favorite beans or vegetables for a personal touch.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a large batch and store leftovers in the fridge or freezer for future meals.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this comforting dish topped with cheese and sour cream.

Tools and Preparation

To make the best chili recipe, having the right tools will help streamline your cooking process. Here are some essential items you’ll need.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven
• Slotted spoon
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven: Ideal for simmering chili, as it retains heat well and cooks evenly.
• Slotted spoon: Perfect for transferring cooked ingredients without excess grease or liquid.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping onions and other ingredients quick and easy.

Ingredients

Learn how to make the best chili recipe with this easy-to-follow recipe that you can enjoy year-round topped with gooey melted cheese, sour cream, and green onions.

For the Base

• 1 pound Turkey Bacon (chopped into small pieces)
• 2 pounds ground beef
• 2 medium onions (diced)

Spices & Seasonings

• 1 teaspoon salt (plus more to taste)
• 1 tablespoon cumin
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons sugar

Tomatoes & Sauces

• 3-4 tablespoons tomato paste
• (1) 28-ounce can diced tomatoes
• (1) 28-ounce can tomato sauce

Beans & Broth

• 2 (15-ounce) cans red kidney beans (drained (not rinsed))
• 2 cups broth (beef broth, bone broth, chicken, vegetable) plus more as needed

Optional Toppings

• sour cream
• shredded cheddar cheese
• chopped green onions
• Tabasco sauce

How to Make The Best Chili Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Turkey Bacon

Add the chopped Turkey Bacon to a large Dutch oven set over medium-high heat. Once hot and sizzling:
1. Reduce heat to medium-low and cover with a lid.
2. Cook low and slow, stirring occasionally until golden.
3. Remove lid and cook until desired doneness.
4. Using a slotted spoon, transfer cooked Turkey Bacon to a plate lined with paper towels and set aside. Reserve 2 tablespoons of leftover Turkey Bacon grease.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

In the same Dutch oven over medium-high heat:
1. Add 1 tablespoon of reserved Turkey Bacon grease back into the pot.
2. Add ground beef and season with salt and pepper.
3. Brown the beef thoroughly before transferring it to a clean plate.

Step 3: Cook the Onions

Add the remaining tablespoon of Turkey Bacon grease to your pot over medium heat:
1. Add diced onions and cook for 5-7 minutes until soft and translucent.
2. Sprinkle in salt, cumin, garlic powder, chili powder, and sugar; mix well.
3. Stir in tomato paste; cook for another 1-2 minutes while stirring continuously.
4. Add diced tomatoes and tomato sauce; bring mixture to a simmer.

Step 4: Return the Beef & Add Beans

Once your onion mixture is simmering:
1. Return Turkey Bacon and browned ground beef to the pot.
2. Stir in kidney beans along with 2-3 cups of low-sodium broth.
3. Mix well to combine all ingredients.

Step 5: Simmer

Allow your chili to simmer for about 15-20 minutes before serving:
– Adjust seasoning with additional salt or spices if needed.
– Add more broth if your chili is too thick.

Step 6: Serve

Serve this delicious chili hot with all your favorite toppings such as:
– Sour cream,
– Shredded cheddar cheese,
– Chopped green onions,
– Tabasco sauce if desired.

Enjoy this hearty bowl of goodness!

How to Serve The Best Chili Recipe

Serving chili is a delightful experience that can be customized for everyone. Whether you prefer it topped with creamy ingredients or alongside crunchy sides, the options are endless.

Classic Toppings

• Sour Cream – A dollop of sour cream adds a cool and creamy contrast to the spicy chili.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Sprinkle some shredded cheddar on top for a rich and savory flavor.
• Chopped Green Onions – Fresh green onions provide a crisp texture and vibrant color to your bowl of chili.

Crunchy Accompaniments

• Tortilla Chips – Serve with crispy tortilla chips for dipping or crunching.
• Cornbread – A slice of warm cornbread complements the flavors of the chili beautifully.
• Crackers – Offer some buttery crackers to add an extra layer of crunch.

Additional Flavor Enhancers

• Hot Sauce – Provide a selection of hot sauces for those who enjoy an extra kick.
• Avocado Slices – Creamy avocado can balance out the spice, offering a refreshing taste.

How to Perfect The Best Chili Recipe

To elevate your chili game, follow these simple tips that enhance flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Spices – Fresh spices provide more vibrant flavors than old ones, giving your chili an authentic taste.
• Adjust Consistency – If your chili is too thick, add more broth until you reach your desired consistency.
• Let It Rest – Allowing your chili to sit for a bit after cooking helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
• Experiment with Beans – Try using different types of beans like black beans or pinto beans for unique textures and flavors.

Best Side Dishes for The Best Chili Recipe

Pairing side dishes with chili enhances your meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Cornbread – Sweet and crumbly, cornbread is perfect for soaking up every drop of chili.
2. Rice – Fluffy rice serves as a mild base that complements the bold flavors of the chili.
3. Garlic Bread – Crispy garlic bread adds flavor and texture while being perfect for dipping into chili.
4. Salad – A fresh green salad balances out the richness of the chili, adding crunch and freshness.
5. Coleslaw – Creamy coleslaw gives a cool contrast that pairs nicely with spicy dishes.
6. Stuffed Peppers – Baked stuffed peppers filled with rice or quinoa make a hearty addition to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making chili can be a delightful experience, but there are common mistakes that can diminish your dish’s flavor and texture.

• Bold seasoning choices: Not seasoning your chili properly can lead to bland results. Make sure to taste as you go and adjust with salt, pepper, or spices.
• Bold ingredient neglect: Skipping key ingredients like onions or garlic can result in a flat taste. Always include aromatics for depth of flavor.
• Bold cooking time errors: Overcooking or undercooking can ruin the texture. Be mindful of simmering times to ensure perfect consistency.
• Bold bean usage: Using the wrong type or not draining beans properly can affect the chili’s consistency. Opt for red kidney beans and drain them well before adding.
• Bold broth choices: Using water instead of broth can lead to a lack of richness. Use low-sodium broth for enhanced flavor without excess salt.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Containers: Use glass or plastic containers with tight-fitting lids to maintain freshness.

Freezing The Best Chili Recipe

• Duration: Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
• Containers: Use freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving some space for expansion.

Reheating The Best Chili Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating.
• Stovetop: In a pot over medium heat, stir occasionally until heated throughout, adding a splash of broth if it thickens too much.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making the best chili recipe.

What is The Best Chili Recipe?

The best chili recipe is one that balances flavors from spices, meat, and beans while allowing you to customize it based on your preferences.

How can I make The Best Chili Recipe spicier?

To make the best chili recipe spicier, add more chili powder, diced jalapeños, or hot sauce according to your heat tolerance.

Can I use turkey instead of beef in The Best Chili Recipe?

Yes! Ground turkey is a great substitute that keeps the dish lighter while still being delicious.

How long does it take to make The Best Chili Recipe?

From start to finish, it typically takes about 75 minutes to make the best chili recipe.

Final Thoughts

This chili recipe is not only flavorful but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding different beans or spices according to your taste. Whether you’re serving it at a gathering or enjoying it on a cozy night in, it’s sure to please everyone. Don’t hesitate—give this recipe a try!